Under the Lanterman Act, all developmentally disabled individuals in California have a right to receive care through the California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”). Importantly, the law specifies that it must be individualized care tailored to the unique needs, goals, and life circumstances of each person. A key part of that is being in control of the services you receive, including the ability to decide which providers you work with, appeal decisions, request hearings, and more. To help with all this, here are a collection of forms for IPP prep, hearing request, or notes log. Use them as templates, or as a starting place to create your own documents and forms.
IPP Prep
The Individual Program Plan (“IPP”) is the roadmap to your individualized care. When you create your IPP you will do so in collaboration with your regional care center and your care coordinator. To help you prepare for this meeting, take a look at the DDS’s official IPP Form, available online. This will show you what information appears on an IPP so you can prepare in advance.
Additionally, click here to download DDSConnect’s IPP Prep Form. [insert downloadable asset here]
Hearing Request
If you ever disagree with a DDS decision or action that impacts your services, you have a right to appeal that decision or action. Specifically, you can request a Fair Hearing to officially resolve the dispute.
The primary form you will need to request a hearing is the official California Fair Hearing Request Form, available for download through the DDS. For additional help, take a look at DDSConnect’s template letter for initiating a request for a hearing.
Notes Log
A notes log is less an official form or document and more a method for keeping your own personal notes. It’s a good idea to document and take notes on any interaction you have with DDS, care providers, vendors, or any other state agency. From there, we recommend storing your notes log in your personal DDS file. Check out our article for maintaining a personal file using the three-ring binder method.
Ultimately, what goes into your notes log, and what precise formatting you use, is up to you. The key is to find a system that works and then stick with it.
To help get you started, here’s a downloadable Notes Log [insert downloadable asset here]. Use it as a template to get you started. Maintaining good notes is a powerful tool, and a key component of your personal DDS files.
Use the information and tools in this article to take charge of your DDS services and supports. Use these forms for IPP Prep, hearing request, or notes log.